Public Relations vs. Advertising: What’s the Difference?

There’s an old saying: “Advertising is what you pay for, publicity is what you pray for.”

Advertising requires payment and results in guaranteed placement. In contrast, public relations is earned. Legitimate media outlets do not accept payment to run articles. They will only run what is newsworthy to their audience and have total control over what is published or aired.

The graphic below shows the primary differences between advertising and PR:

If you are considering a public relations campaign, it’s very important to understand these differences.

PR professionals are storytellers and image shapers who can create narratives to advance client agendas. PR can protect, enhance and build reputations and credibility.

Interested in growing your business with a strategic public relations program?